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Version 1.0 May 05, 2009

PrimusLabs Audit (101702)
Ranch v07.04
Customer(s)NewStar Fresh Foods, LLC
    Contact:Thea Eubanks
    Address: P.O. Box 5999
    Salinas California 93901
    United States
    Phone Number: 831-784-6646 Fax Number: 831-758-7876
    Email(s):jbautista@newstarfresh.com
River Ranch Fresh Foods
    Contact:Francisco Valdes
    Address: 1156 Abbott St
    Salinas California 93901
    United States
    Phone Number: 831-970-0707 Fax Number: 831-755-8255
    Email(s):Cvaldes@rrff.com
Pacific International Marketing/Dynasty Farms
    Contact: Sharan Lanini
    Address: P.O. Box 3737
    Salinas California 93912
    United States
    Phone Number: 831-755-1398 Fax Number: 831-422-0960
    Email(s):Aanderson@pim4u.com;Liliana@pim4u.com;vinny@pim4u.com
Grower(s)Rava Ranches
    Contact:Alfredo Huguez
    Address: 700 Airport Dr.
    King City California 93930
    United States
    Phone Number: 831-902-6228
    Email(s):alfredo@ravaranch.com
Ranch(s)Black Jack
    San Lucas California
    United States
Facility(s)Taylor Farms - Hansen
    Contact:Joshua Tamayo
    Address: 1275 Hansen Street, Salinas CA 93901
    Salinas California 93901
    United States
    Phone Number: 831-676-9582 Fax Number: 831-676-9502
    Email(s):jtamayo@taylorfarms.com
Audit Type:Farm/Ranch
Foreman or Contact Person (and email):Jose Ortiz
Location/City:San Lucas
State:California
Country:United States
Date Audit Started:04/30/2009 07:00
Date Audit Finished:04/30/2009 19:00
Commodity(ies):Spring Mix, Romaine Lettuce, Spring Mix, Lettuce, Spinach, Lettuce, Butter Lettuce (Butterhead)
Auditor:Mario Gutierrez (PrimusLabs Auditors)
Audit Percentage Score:98%
Announced Audit?Yes
Audit Scope:Food safety audit in a farm operation. This is a conventional operation with certain organic lots operating under organic principles (Lots 17 & 18).
Audit Entered By:Mario Gutierrez


Self Inspection
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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01.01Have Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) manuals covering each growing area within the scope of this audit (e.g., growing operation, orchard, vineyard) been developed and are they available for review?Yes55Yes, there is a document with GAP manual that include general policies, hygiene policies, training program for ranch employees with recording forms, Pre-season risk assessments, water testing and treatment program, sanitary facilities inspection logs.
01.02Have documented Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)self-audits been completed for each growing area that is within the scope of this audit (e.g. growing operation, orchard, vineyard)?Yes77Yes, there are records of pre-planting food safety inspections, internal food safety inspections, including risk assessments. Self inspections performed by Jose Ortiz.

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.

Traceability
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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02.01Is the growing area(s) adequately identified or coded to enable trace back and trace forward in the event of a recall?Yes1515Yes, ranch maps used to identify ranches, including lot numbers, crops and water resources. Traceback program available at this farm, along with shippers traceback systems.

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.

Ground History
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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03.01Were farming area(s) used for growing food crops for human consumption last season?Yes00Yes. The farming area was used for the production of crops for human consumption last seasons, as seen on crop history records. There are records of crop history on each ranch.
03.02Has the growing area(s) been used for any non-agricultural functions? If No, go to 3.03No77No. The growing areas have not been used for non-agricultural purposes.
03.02aIf the land had been used previously for non-agricultural functions have soil tests been conducted showing soil was negative or within an appropriate regulatory agency's approved limits for contaminants?N/A00
03.03Has the growing area(s) been used for animal husbandry or grazing land for animals? If No, go to 3.04No77No. The growing area has not been used for animal husbandry or grazing land for animals.
03.03aIf the land was used previously for animal husbandry or grazing land for livestock, has a risk evaluation been performed?N/A00
03.04Is there any evidence of animal activity in the crop that is a potential food safety risk?No2020No, not seen during the time of the audit.
03.05Has flooding from uncontrolled causes occurred on the growing area(s) since the previous growing season? If No, go to 3.06No00No. There has been no uncontrolled flooding in this growing area.
03.05aIf the growing area(s) and product was affected from the flood waters, is there documented evidence that corrective measures were taken to affected land and product?N/A00
03.05bHave soil tests been conducted on the flooded area(s) showing soil was negative or within an appropriate regulatory agency's approved limits for contaminants?N/A00
03.06Is the growing operation under organic principles? If No , go to 3.07No00Definition for "organic principles": A system that relies on ecosystem management rather than external agricultural inputs. http://www.fao.org/ORGANICAG/fram11-e.htmYes. Certain lots of this ranch are operating under organic principles (lots 17 & 18).
03.06aIs current certification by an accredited organic certification organization on file and available for review?Yes00Yes, organic operation certified by ASCO.
03.07If the growing area(s) is a new purchase or lease, has a documented risk assessment been undertaken?N/A00N/A. No new land open to grow produce in this farm operation.

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.

Adjacent Land Use
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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04.01Is the adjacent land to the growing area a possible source of contamination from intensive livestock production (e.g. feed lots, dairy operations, poultry houses, meat rendering operation)? If No, go to 4.02No1010No. The adjacent land to the growing area was not a possible source of contamination from intensive livestock production operations.
04.01aHave appropriate measures been taken to mitigate this possible contamination source onto the growing area (e.g. buffer areas, physical barriers, fences, ditches, etc.)?N/A00
04.02Are, or is there evidence of domestic animals, wild animals, grazing lands (includes homes with hobby farms, and non commercial livestock) in proximity to growing operation? If No, go to 4.03Yes010Examples include chicken coops, dogs, horses, homes with hobby farms, wild pigs etc. Auditor must consider the maturity stage and type of crop involved. For example, pig activity around a ground level berry crop is different from a high level tree crop.Yes. This ranch is close to the hills, some livestock head noted grazing on the hills close to lot 21.
04.02aHave physical measures been put in place to restrain domestic animals, grazing lands, (includes homes with hobby farms, and non commercial livestock) and their waste from entering the growing area (e.g. vegetative strips, wind breaks, physical barriers, berms, fences, diversion ditches.)?Yes1515Yes, fence along the edge of hills, dieviation ditches.
04.02bIs there a written policy supported by visual evidence that domestic, livestock, or wild animals are not allowed in the growing area? Note: This includes any packaging or equipment storage areas.Yes1010Yes, included on GAP manual.
04.02cAre measures in place to reduce or limit the animal intrusion (i.e., monitoring field perimeter for signs of intrusion)?Yes1515Yes. Monitoring logs.
04.03Are untreated animal manure piles, compost, biosolids, or nonsynthetic amendment stored and/or applied on adjacent land? If No, go to 4.04No1010No. There were no untreated manure piles, compost bio-solids, or non-synthetic amendments stored and/or applied on the adjacent land to the growing area.
04.03aHave physical measures been taken to secure untreated animal manure piles, compost, biosolids, or nonsynthetic amendment stored and/or applied on adjacent land?N/A00
04.03bIf biosolids are stored and/or applied on adjacent land, has the adjacent landowner supplied paperwork confirming the biosolids meet prevailing guidelines, governmental, or local standards?N/A00
04.04Is the growing area situated in a higher risk location where contamination could occur from nearby operations or functions (e.g. leach fields,  runoff or potential flooding from sewers, toilet systems, industrial facilities, labor camps)? If No, go to 4.05No1010No. The growing area is not situated in a higher risk location where contamination could occur from nearby operations.
04.04aHave appropriate measures been taken to mitigate risks related to nearby operations?N/A00
04.05Is there a documented and implemented policy that infant or toddler aged children are not allowed in the growing area? NOTE: This includes any packaging or equipment storage areas.Yes1010Yes, developed in their GAP manual.

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.

Fertilizer/Crop Nutrition
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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05.01Is untreated human sewage sludge used in the growing cycle? If this question is answered Yes, automatic failure of this audit will result.No2020No. Untreated human sewage sludge is not used in the growing cycle for this farming operation.
05.02Is compost produced from animal derived materials used by the grower? If No, go to 5.03No00No. The growing operation does not use compost produced from animal derived during the growing of the crops included within the scope of this audit.
05.02aAre compost applications incorporated into the soil prior to planting or bud burst for tree crops and not applied during the growing season?N/A00
05.02bAre there compost use records available for each growing area, including application records which shows that the interval between application and harvest was not less than 45 days?N/A00
05.02cAre there Certificate(s) of Analysis (CoA) from the compost supplier(s) that covers pathogen and heavy metal testing (plus any other legally/best practice required testing) and does the grower have relevant letters of guarantee regarding SOP's and logs?N/A00
05.03Are biosolids used? If No, go to 5.04. NOTE: Special attention to commodity specific guidelines rules (e.g., Californian Leafy Greens) which ban the use of biosolids, see 5.03dNo00No. The growing operation does not use bio-solids.
05.03aAre biosolids incorporated into the soil prior to planting or bud burst for tree crops and not applied during the growing season?N/A00
05.03bAre the grower's biosolids use records available for each growing area, especially application records?N/A00
05.03cAre there a Certificate(s) of Analysis (COA) from the biosolid supplier(s) certifying compliance with prevailing national/ local standards and guidelines? If this question is answered No, automatic failure of this audit will result.N/A00
05.03dAre biosolids being applied to crops where the country of production regulations/guidelines ban the use such materials e.g. Leafy Green Commodity Specific Guidelines in California? If this question is answered Yes, automatic failure of this audit will result.N/A00
05.04Is untreated animal manure used? If No, go to 5.05. NOTE: Special attention to commodity specific guidelines rules (e.g., Californian Leafy Green Commodity Specific Guidelines) which ban the use of untreated animal manures. See 5.04dNo1515No. The growing operation does not use untreated animal manure.
05.04aIs untreated animal manure incorporated into the soil prior to planting or bud burst for tree crops and not applied during the growing season?N/A00
05.04bAre there untreated animal manure records available for each growing area including application records which shows that the interval between application and harvest was not less than 120 days (unless more stringent laws or guidelines exist)?N/A00
05.04cAre there Certificate(s) of Analysis (COA), specification or some other document available for review provided by the untreated animal manure supplier stating the components of the material?N/A00
05.04dAre untreated animal manures being applied to crops where the country regulations/guidelines ban the use such materials (e.g., Californian Leafy Green Commodity Specific Guidelines)? If this question is answered Yes, automatic failure of this audit will result.N/A00
05.05Are other nonsynthetic crop treatments used (e.g. compost teas, fish emulsions, fish meal, blood meal,"bio fertilizers")? If No, go to 5.06Yes00Examples include but are not limited to compost teas, fish emulsions, fish meal, blood meal, and "bio fertilizers" that are produced from animal materials.Yes, they are using K -Day compost on selected ranches.
05.05aAre nonsynthetic treatments that contain animal products or animal manures applied to the edible portions crops?No1515No. All K-day compost are applied at pre-planting.
05.05bAre nonsynthetic crop treatment records available for each growing area including application records demonstrating the interval between application and harvest was not less than 45 days?Yes1515Yes, records are kept on each ranch.
05.05cAre there Certificate(s) of Analysis available from the nonsynthetic crop treatment suppliers that covers pathogen and heavy metal testing (plus any other legally/best practice required testing)?Yes2020Yes, there is a letter of with compost ingredients, method of composting and COA's of IEH Laboratories (EHEC, Salmonella, Fc).
05.06Are any soil amendments (except inorganic nutrients/fertilizers) used that do not contain animal products and/or animal manures? If No, go to 5.07No00
05.06aAre the grower's soil amendment (except inorganic nutrients/fertilizers that do not contain animal products and/or animal manures) records available for review including application records?N/A00
05.06bAre there Certificate(s) of Analysis (COA) and/or letters of guarantee stating that the materials used are free from animal products and/or animal manures?N/A00
05.07Are inorganic fertilizers used? If No, go to 5.08Yes00Yes. Inorganic fertilizers are applied in this farm operation, including gypsum and limestone.
05.07aAre the grower's inorganic fertilizer records available for review including application records?Yes1010Yes, records are available to review for each application.
05.07bAre there Certificate(s) of Analysis (COA), letters of guarantee or some other documents from the inorganic fertilizer supplier(s) that specifies the source of all the ingredients including inert materials?Yes77Yes, letters from suppliers are on file (Ag Services, CPS, etc).
05.08If fertilizers and/or fertilizer containers are stored on the property, are they stored in a manner to prevent contamination to the growing area(s) or any of water sources?Yes33Yes. Nurse Tanks are correct positioned to prevent contamination to food crops.

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.

Irrigation/Water Use
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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06.01Does the growing operation practice dryland farming? If No, go to 6.02.No00This refers to crop production that relies only on direct rainfall.No. Irrigated cropping system only.
06.01aIf the growing operation practices dryland farming, are there water systems used in the growing operation to supply for crop needs such as crop protection/fertilizer applications, and frost or freeze prevention program? If No, go to 6.02N/A00
06.01bAre microbiological tests, including Generic E.coli conducted on water used for crop protection/fertilizer applications, and frost or freeze prevention program? If No, go to 6.01d.N/A00
06.01cAre the microbiological tests current and conducted at the required and/or expected frequencies?N/A00
06.01dDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering proper sampling protocols which include how samples should be identified?N/A00
06.01eDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering corrective measures for unsuitable or abnormal water testing results?N/A00
06.01fIf unsuitable or abnormal results have been detected, have documented corrective measures been performed?N/A00
06.02Is the water used for the growing operation sourced from Municipal or District water pipeline systems? If No, go to 6.03Yes00Yes, from San Benito County.
06.02aAre microbiological tests, including Generic E.coli conducted on water used for crop protection/fertilizer applications, and frost or freeze prevention program? If No, go to 6.02c.Yes2020Yes. E. coli.
06.02bAre the microbiological tests current and conducted at the required and/or expected frequencies?Yes1515Yes, monthly tested.
06.02cDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering proper sampling protocols?Yes1010Yes. SOP 5-04.
06.02dDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering corrective measures for unsuitable or abnormal water testing results?Yes1010Yes, SOP 5-01.
06.02eIf unsuitable or abnormal results have been detected, have documented corrective measures been performed?N/A00
06.02fAre the crops irrigated by a micro irrigation or drip system?Yes00
06.02gIs overhead irrigation used to irrigate the crop or as part of a frost or freeze prevention program? NOTE: "Irrigating the crop" refers to irrigation during the mature growing cycle. This does not include pre-planting or just after planting to create a stand.Yes00Information gathering question. Reducing contact with edible portion of the crop is believed to reduces microbial risk.
06.02hAre the crops irrigated by flood irrigation or a furrow system?No00
06.02iAre the crops sub irrigated (also known as seepage irrigation)?No00Information gathering question. Reducing contact with edible portion of the crop is believed to reduces microbial risk.
06.03Is the water used in the growing operation sourced from wells? If No, go to 6.04Yes00Yes, this operation is sourced by wells.
06.03aAre all well heads an adequate distance from untreated manure?Yes1515Yes, no manure observed close to the water source.
06.03bIs the well designed to prevent contamination?Yes1010Yes. Check valves are available in wells and all are sealed.
06.03cIs it evident that the well(s) is free from contamination issues and are measures taken to minimize contamination of wells?Yes1010Yes. No trash or weeds observed during the time of the audit. Surroundings appears very clean, well noted with no leaks or oil spills.
06.03dAre records kept for periodic inspections and treatment of wells (if performed) available for review?Yes77Yes, using a specific form to keep records on a visual inspections of water resources. A Food safety assessment is performed on all water sorces.
06.03eAre microbiological tests, including Generic E.coli conducted on water used for irrigation, crop protection/fertilizer applications, and frost or freeze prevention program? If No, go to 6.03gYes2020Yes, they are testing the water from well and have a letters from crop protection and fertilizers suppliers, along with COA's.
06.03fAre the microbiological tests current and conducted at the required and/or expected frequencies?Yes1515Yes, in accordance to the LGMA metrics. Monthly samples are pulled in-house.
06.03gDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering proper sampling protocols?Yes1010Yes, a SOP has been developed (Water sampling).
06.03hDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering corrective measures for unsuitable or abnormal water testing results?Yes1010Yes. Water sources corrective actions procedures are placed in their GAP manual.
06.03iIf unsuitable or abnormal results have been detected, have documented corrective measures been performed?N/A00
06.03jAre the crops irrigated by a micro irrigation or drip system?Yes00
06.03kIs overhead irrigation used to irrigate the crop or as part of a frost or freeze prevention program? NOTE: "Irrigating the crop" refers to irrigation during the mature growing cycle. This does not include pre-planting or just after planting to create a stand.Yes00Information gathering question. Reducing contact with edible portion of the crop is believed to reduces microbial risk.
06.03lAre the crops irrigated by flood irrigation or a furrow system?No00
06.03mAre the crops sub irrigated (also known as seepage irrigation)?No00Information gathering question. Reducing contact with edible portion of the crop is believed to reduces microbial risk.
06.04Is the water used in the growing operation sourced from ponds, reservoirs, watersheds or other surface water source? If No, go to 6.05Yes00Water sourced from ponds, reservoirs, watersheds or other surface water systems may carry more of a risk for contamination than closed water sources. For surface waters, consider the impact of storm events on irrigation practices. Bacterial loads in surface water are generally much higher than normal, and caution should be exercised when using these waters for irrigation.Yes, two reservoirs in operation.
06.04aIs surface water in adequate distance from untreated manure?Yes1515Yes, no issues noted.
06.04bDo animals (domestic, livestock, or wild) have access to the water source?Yes07Animals (domestic, livestock, or wild) should not have access to the system due to the possibility of contamination occurrences.No, all are complete fenced.
06.04cIs it evident that the water source is free of contamination issues and are measures taken to minimize contamination of the water source?Yes1010Yes, reservoirs appears very clean.
06.04dAre records kept for the periodic visual inspections and disinfection treatments (if used) available for review?Yes77Yes, using a specific form to keep records on a visual inspections of water resources. A Food safety assessment is performed on all water sources.
06.04eAre microbiological tests, including Generic E.coli conducted on water used for irrigation, crop protection/fertilizer applications, and frost or freeze prevention program? If No, go to 6.04gYes2020Yes, they are testing the water from well and have a letters from crop protection and fertilizers suppliers, along with COA's.
06.04fAre the microbiological tests current and conducted at the required and/or expected frequencies?Yes1515Yes, in accordance to the LGMA metrics. Monthly samples are pulled in-house.
06.04gDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering proper sampling protocols?Yes1010Yes, a SOP has been developed (Water sampling).
06.04hDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering corrective measures for unsuitable or abnormal water testing results?Yes1010Yes. Water sources corrective actions procedures are placed in their GAP manual.
06.04iIf unsuitable or abnormal results have been detected, have documented corrective measures been performed?N/A00
06.04jAre the crops irrigated by a micro irrigation or drip system?Yes00
06.04kIs overhead irrigation used to irrigate the crop or as part of a frost or freeze prevention program? NOTE: "Irrigating the crop" refers to irrigation during the mature growing cycle. This does not include pre-planting or just after planting to create a stand.Yes00Information gathering question. Reducing contact with edible portion of the crop is believed to reduces microbial risk.
06.04lAre the crops irrigated by flood irrigation or a furrow system?No00
06.04mAre the crops sub irrigated (also known as seepage irrigation)?No00Information gathering question. Reducing contact with edible portion of the crop is believed to reduces microbial risk.
06.05Is the water used in the growing operation sourced from canals, rivers, ditches, or other open flowing water systems? If No, go to 6.06No00
06.05aIs surface water in adequate distance from untreated manure?N/A00
06.05bIs the water source under the direction of a water authority or district?N/A00
06.05cDo animals (domestic, livestock, or wild) have access to the water source?N/A00
06.05dIs it evident that the water source is free of contamination issues and are measures taken to minimize contamination of the water source?N/A00
06.05eAre records kept for periodic visual inspection and disinfection (if occurring) of the water source and available for review?N/A00
06.05fAre microbial tests, including Generic E.coli conducted on water used for irrigation, crop protection/fertilizer applications, and frost or freeze prevention program? If No, go to 6.05hN/A00
06.05gAre the microbiological tests current and conducted at the required and/or expected frequencies?N/A00
06.05hDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering proper sampling protocols?N/A00
06.05iDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering corrective measures for unsuitable or abnormal water testing results?N/A00
06.05jIf unsuitable or abnormal results have been detected, have documented corrective measures been performed?N/A00
06.05kAre the crops irrigated by a micro irrigation or drip system?N/A00
06.05lIs overhead irrigation used to irrigate the crop or as part of a frost or freeze prevention program? NOTE: "Irrigating the crop" refers to irrigation during the mature growing cycle. This does not include pre-planting or just after planting to create a stand.N/A00
06.05mAre the crops irrigated by flood irrigation or furrow system?N/A00
06.05nAre the crops sub irrigated (also known as seepage irrigation)?N/A00
06.06Is reclaimed water used in the growing operation? NOTE: This refers to wastewater that has gone through a treatment process. If No, go to 6.07.No00
06.06aIs the reclamation process under the direction of a water reclamation management or authority?N/A00
06.06bAre microbial control measures for reclaimed water utilized?N/A00
06.06cAre microbial tests, including Generic E.coli conducted on water used for irrigation, crop protection/fertilizer applications, and frost or freeze prevention program? If No, go to 6.06eN/A00
06.06dAre the microbiological tests current and conducted at the required and/or expected frequencies?N/A00
06.06eDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering proper sampling protocols?N/A00
06.06fDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering corrective measures for unsuitable or abnormal water testing results?N/A00
06.06gIf unsuitable or abnormal results have been detected, have documented corrective measures been performed?N/A00
06.06hAre the crops irrigated by a micro irrigation or drip system?N/A00
06.06iIs overhead irrigation used to irrigate the crop or as part of a frost or freeze prevention program? NOTE: "Irrigating the crop" refers to irrigation during the mature growing cycle. This does not include pre-planting or just after planting to create a stand.N/A00
06.06jAre the crops irrigated by flood irrigation or a furrow system?N/A00
06.06kAre the crops sub irrigated (also known as seepage irrigation)?N/A00
06.07Are tail water (run off water) systems used in the growing operation? If No, go to 6.08.No00No. Tail water or runoff sytems not used in this farming operation.
06.07aIs tail water in adequate distance from untreated manure?N/A00
06.07bDo animals (domestic, livestock, or wild) have access to the tail water systems?N/A00
06.07cIs it evident that the water source is free of contamination issues and are measures taken to minimize contamination of the tail water system?N/A00
06.07dAre records kept for periodic visual inspection and disinfection (if occurring) of the water source and available for review?N/A00
06.07eAre microbial tests conducted, including Generic E.coli on water used for irrigation, crop protection/fertilizer applications, and frost or freeze prevention program? If No, go to 6.07gN/A00
06.07fAre the microbiological tests current and conducted at the required and/or expected frequencies?N/A00
06.07gDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering proper sampling protocols?N/A00
06.07hDo written procedures (SOPs) exist covering corrective measures for unsuitable or abnormal water testing results?N/A00
06.07iIf unsuitable or abnormal results have been detected, have documented corrective measures been performed?N/A00
06.07jAre the crops irrigated by a micro irrigation or drip system?N/A00
06.07kIs overhead irrigation used to irrigate the crop or as part of a frost or freeze prevention program? NOTE: "Irrigating the crop" refers to irrigation during the mature growing cycle. This does not include pre-planting or just after planting to create a stand.N/A00
06.07lAre the crops irrigated by flood irrigation or furrow system?N/A00
06.07mAre the crops sub irrigated (also known as seepage irrigation)?N/A00
06.08Are check valves, anti-siphon devices, or other back flow prevention systems in use when and where necessary?Yes1010
06.09Is irrigation equipment not in use free from pest contamination and stored clean off the ground?Yes1010Yes, all were seen stacked above ground, using trailers or beams (metal or wood).

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.

Crop Protection
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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07.01Is there a documented policy and/or procedures for the mixing/loading of crop protection materials?Yes55Yes, policy developed in GAP manual and suppliers policies.
07.01aIs mixing, loading, or the dilution of crop protection materials performed safely and within a distance where the growing area and water sources are not affected?N/A00No mixing or loading of chemicals observed at time of audit.
07.02Is there a documented policy and/or procedures for the rinsing and cleaning of crop protection equipment?Yes55Yes. Policy developed in their GAP manual and suppliers policies.
07.02aIs rinsing and cleaning of crop protection equipment performed safely and within a distance where land and water sources are not affected?Yes77Yes. All rinsing and cleaning of spray equipment done by Certified contractors with Pest Control Operators Certification/License.
07.03Is there documentation that shows the individual(s) making decisions for crop protection are qualified?Yes1010Yes. Copy of PCA's licenses are on file (Chris Headley 74559)).
07.04Is there documentation that shows employees who handle crop protection materials are trained or are under the supervision of a trained individual?Yes1515Yes, copy of training records are kept on file.
07.05Does the growing operation follow a pesticide application recording program? If No, go to 7.06 If this question is answered No, automatic failure of this audit will result.Yes2020Yes. The growing operation is recording the use of pesticides applied to the crop.
07.05aAre crop protection application records up to date and available for review?Yes1515Yes. Dated records and pesticide application histories available for review.
07.06Are crop protection materials registered in the country of use for the target crop where official registration is in place? If this question is answered Yes, skip to question 7.07. If no official registration system is utilized answer this question N/A and go to 7.06a. Where a system exists, but a crop protection chemical being used is not registered for the target crop either "in country" or by extrapolation (see 7.06a), the response to this question is No. If this question is answered No, automatic failure of this audit will result.Yes2020Yes, EPA registration numbers available for all crop protection chemicals and registered.
07.06aDoes the country of production allow the use of crop protection materials that are registered for the target crop in another country, as long as the use of this material does not contravene any prevailing national and local laws in the destination country (e.g. maximum residue limit, banned lists, etc.)? If this question is answered No, automatic failure of this audit will result.N/A00
07.07Are crop protection applications restricted by the guidelines established by the product label, manufacturer recommendation, or by prevailing national/ local standards and guidelines? If this question is answered No, automatic failure of this audit will result.Yes2020Yes. Current Crop protection chemical labels and MSDS's were available for review and listed all crop restrictions.
07.08Where harvesting is restricted by pre-harvest intervals (as required on the crop protection chemical product labels, manufacturer recommendations and/or by prevailing national/ local standards) is the grower adhering to these pre-harvest interval time periods? If this question is answered No, automatic failure of this audit will result.Yes2020Yes. All pre-harvest restrictions were available on Notice of Intent recomendations by PCA. Refer to 07.03
07.09Are employee re-entry intervals established as required by the pesticide label, manufacturer recommendation, or by prevailing national/ local standards and guidelines?Yes1010
07.10When crop protection applications occur, does posting take place on area of treatment according to prevailing national/ local standards and guidelines?Yes1010Yes. Field posting and removal done by licensed pest control operators.
07.11To avoid drift, are crop protection applications restricted when gusts are excessive?Yes1010Yes, grower follows the label and PCA recommendation.
07.12If crop protection containers are stored on the property (even temporarily), are they stored in a manner to prevent contamination and disposed of responsibly?Yes1010Yes.
07.13Have documented policies and/or procedures been developed for the monitoring of crop protection application equipment (e.g. calibration procedures, inspections, replacement)?Yes1010Yes, supplier's policy. All calibration done by licensed private applicators.
07.13aIs it evident that the equipment used for crop protection applications is in good working order?N/A00N/A. Not seen during the time of the audit.

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.

Employee Hygiene (This applies to on-the-farm staff not the harvesting staff)
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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08.01Does the growing operation have a documented and implemented policy for dealing with employees who appear to be physically ill, or become ill while working?Yes1010Yes. The growing operation have a documented and implemented policy for dealing with employees who appear to be physically ill, or become ill while working.
08.02Does the growing operation have a documented and implemented policy regarding employees with open sores and wounds?Yes1010Yes. The growing operation have a documented and implemented policy regarding employees with open sores and wounds.
08.03Does the growing operation have a documented and implemented procedure in place requiring for all commodities that come in contact with blood to be destroyed? If this question is answered No, automatic failure of this audit will result.Yes2020Yes, policy in place.
08.04Does the growing operation have documented and implemented policies prohibiting eating, drinking (including gum chewing) using tobacco in the growing area?Yes1010Yes. The growing operation have a documented and implemented policies prohibiting eating, drinking (including gum chewing) using tobacco in the growing area.
08.05Is there a food safety hygiene training program covering new and existing employees and are there records of these training events?Yes1515Yes, there is a training program for farm employees (irrigators, tractor drivers). Procedure 5.4.
08.06Are there operational toilet facilities provided? If NO, go to 8.07. If this question is answered No, the audit will result in an automatic failure.Yes2020
08.06aAre the toilet facilities placed within ¼ mile or 5 minutes walking distance of all employees?Yes1010
08.06bAre toilet facilities in a suitable location to prevent contamination to the growing area?Yes1515
08.06cIs a minimum of one toilet facility provided for each group of 20 employees?Yes55
08.06dDo toilet facilities have visuals or signs, written in the appropriate languages, reminding employees to wash their hands before returning to work?Yes22
08.06eAre the toilets maintained in a clean and sanitary condition and are there records showing toilet cleaning, servicing and stocking is occurring regularly?Yes1010
08.06fAre the catch basins of the toilets designed and maintained to prevent contamination in the field (e.g. free from leaks and cracks)?Yes55
08.06gIs there is a documented and implemented procedure for emptying the catch basin in a hygienic manner and also in a way that prevent product, packaging, equipment and water system contamination?Yes55Yes, from Star Sanitation.
08.07Is there evidence of human fecal contamination in the growing area? If this question is answered Yes, automatic failure of this audit will result.No2020
08.08Are there operational hand washing facilities provided? If No, go to 8.09Yes1515
08.08aAre the hand washing facilities placed within ¼ mile or 5 minutes walking distance of all employees?Yes1010
08.08bAre hand wash stations clearly visible (e.g. situated outside the toilet facility) and easily accessible to workers?No00So employee's hand washing activities can be verified, hand wash stations should be clearly visible (i.e. situated outside the toilet facility) and easily accessible to workers.
08.08cAre hand wash stations properly stocked with soap, paper towels and trash can?Yes55
08.08dAre the hand wash stations designed and being maintained to prevent contamination onto the growing area ( i.e. spent water does not go straight to the ground)?Yes55
08.08eDoes the growing operation have a documented and implemented policy and procedure in place requiring employees to wash their hands (e.g. prior to beginning work, after breaks, after toilet use)?Yes1010
08.09Is fresh potable drinking water provided for workers? If No, go to 8.10Yes1010
08.09aIf used, are water containers maintained in a clean condition?Yes55
08.10Are first-aid kits available and is the inventory maintained properly?Yes55
08.11Are there trash cans available on the farm placed in suitable locations?Yes55
08.12Are there any foreign material issues observed that are or could be potential risks to the product in the growing area (e.g jewelry)?No55

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.

Food Security
Question No.Audit QuestionGiven AnswerGiven ScorePossible ScoreRecommendationAuditor CommentsAudio/
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09.01Are measures taken to control vehicle access to the growing area? (specified access roads, furrows, etc)?Yes55Yes. The growing operation has limited access roads to the growing areas.
09.02Are postings such as "No Trespassing" and/or " Restricted Entry" used appropriately?Yes55Yes, no trespassing postings available at sensitive areas.
09.03Are entrances to ranch-level roads restricted by gates, chains, guard stations, etc.?No05http://www.usda.gov/documents/PreHarvestSecurity_final.pdf
09.04Are wells or other water sources secured and designed to prohibit tampering?Yes55All are sealed and protected.
09.05Are grounds and facilities monitored by either in house or contracted personnel?Yes55
09.06Are staff members instructed to note and report suspicious activity?Yes55
09.07Are high risk areas (e.g. spray equipment, equipment shops, sheds) monitored?Yes55
09.08Is equipment examined for tampering prior to use?Yes55
09.09Are company supervisors required to undergo documented security training with attendance records?Yes55Yes. Under shippers policy (used for training purposes).
09.10Is education material related to security made available?Yes55
09.11Are inventory records of agricultural chemicals maintained? If No, go to 9.12Yes55
09.11aAre the inventory records periodically reconciled with inventory?Yes55
09.12Are all personal materials kept away from the harvest and packaging of  the harvesting operation?Yes55

*Where laws, commodity specific guidelines and/or best practice recommendations exist and are derived from a reputable source, then these practices and parameters should be used. Audit users should allow a degree of risk association if laws, guidelines, best practices, etc., have not been documented.


Audit Scoring Summary
Self InspectionScore12
Possible Points12
Percent Score100%
TraceabilityScore15
Possible Points15
Percent Score100%
Ground HistoryScore34
Possible Points34
Percent Score100%
Adjacent Land UseScore80
Possible Points90
Percent Score89%
Fertilizer/Crop NutritionScore105
Possible Points105
Percent Score100%
Irrigation/Water UseScore259
Possible Points266
Percent Score97%
Crop ProtectionScore187
Possible Points187
Percent Score100%
Employee Hygiene (This applies to on-the-farm staff not the harvesting staff)Score232
Possible Points232
Percent Score100%
TotalScore924
Possible Points941
Percent Score98%

Food Security Scoring Summary
Food SecurityScore60
Possible Points65
Percent Score92%
TotalScore60
Possible Points65
Percent Score92%